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Renewed energy leads to Chamber growth

Renewed energy leads to Chamber growth. Townsville Chamber of Commerce. BDmag Jan-Mar 2025.

Townsville Chamber of Commerce experienced a year of growth and renewed energy in 2024. With new memberships increasing by more than 40% since January last year, their commitment to connecting, informing, and advocating has never been stronger.

Heidi Turner, Townsville Chamber CEO, has had an exceptional first year at the helm.

“Last year was an amazing year of growth for us. Membership and event attendance increased, and we’ve built relationships and collaborated with a range of stakeholders, which is key to the long-term success of our region,” says Heidi.

“Driving us are our core pillars to advocate, connect, and inform. We are not funded by government, which means we can voice the concerns of our members on a range of issues without fear or favour. We’ve been actively representing our members at all levels of government—navigating local and state elections, and now preparing for a federal election to complete the trifecta!

“Locally, we meet regularly with council, and with the support of many, we were successful in halting the paid parking expansion. At the state level, we’re tackling payroll tax reform, insurance inequities, workforce development, crime, housing, and red tape – critical areas for reducing business costs in North Queensland.

“Our federal advocacy focuses on rising insurance costs, industrial relations, fuel excise, and changes to skilled migration.”

Last year the Chamber launched new events and initiatives, which will return this year.

The inaugural Raising Regions Conference brought together thought leaders to showcase and discuss regional innovation and opportunities. The Behind the Scenes Coffee events offered unique insights into local industries, while the Welcome to Townsville Event warmly welcomed newcomers to the business community.

Other popular events such as the Chamber Business Awards, CBD Coffees, Chamber on Tap, and the 38th Annual Gold Day will all return this year.

The team also created popular educational initiatives that will return next month like the Start Right one- day workshop, providing business fundamentals for people thinking of starting a business; and the successful partnership with TAFE that delivered the Certificate IV in Small Business and Entrepreneurship to three cohorts last year.

Chamber also recently launched the New Horizons Program to assist women into employment. Funded under the Skilling Queenslanders for Work scheme, it is set to make a meaningful impact in the year ahead.

“With an exciting calendar of opportunities to connect, learn, and grow, there has never been a better time to join us. Whether you’re a micro-business owner or the manager of a multinational organisation, the Chamber is here to help you thrive in 2025!” says Heidi.

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BDMag

Compiled by the BDmag editorial team
Picture of BDMag

BDMag

Compiled by the BDmag editorial team